Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio is seen addressing a press conference today at Kohima after the Naga People’s Front won complete majority in the 12th Nagaland Legislative Assembly elections. Seen with Rio, are senior members of the NPF. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Kohima | February 28
Emerging with an “overwhelming victory”, the Naga People’s Front (NPF) and its Democratic Alliance of Nagaland (DAN) is all set to meet here on March 1 to plan formation of a new government “as early as possible”. Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio informed this at a press conference held here this evening.
The NPF and its alliance will call on Governor Nikhil Kumar to form the new government. “It is an overwhelming victory,” a visibly delighted Rio claimed in the presence of NPF president Dr. Shurhozelie Liezietsu and other party leaders. The victory of NPF led DAN in three consecutive elections shows that regionalism is here to stay in Nagaland, asserted Rio.
Rio said the Naga political issue stands top priority for the NPF as enshrined in its election manifesto, and further assured that it will continue to play the role of active facilitator to bring about an honorable solution that is acceptable to the people. “It is a vote for peace, development and stability,” he stated.
With the termination of the elections, Rio said, “we must all reconcile and work together”. He also appealed to the elected members to work collectively to bring permanent peace in Nagaland. Assuring citizens that the NPF led DAN government will work with renewed vigor, he announced that DAN III commits to give new energy and new direction to the people within specific time frames.
He said the new government will focus on all round development with special emphasis on youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, employment generation, sports, music and “other new activities”. Women empowerment and development figures on his list too.
On backward areas, Rio said the new government will aim for all round development where focus will be on human resource development, education, health care and economic related activities.
The new government’s priority, informed Rio, will be creation and maintenance of roads in the state.
Terming this election the “most peaceful” in Nagaland so far, Rio appreciated the Election Commission of India and all poll personnel for successful conduct of the election. He also expressed his appreciation to the churches for the Clean Election Campaign which, he said, made the election more peaceful. Rio appreciated Naga youth for propagating election-related matter through social networking sites.
